Mental health support service launched for veterans in Norfolk and Suffolk
Veterans in Norfolk and Suffolk can now get dedicated mental health support.
A new NHS service for armed forces veterans experiencing mental health problems across Norfolk and Suffolk has been launched today (Monday 26th July).
The new Veterans Integrated Service is being run in partnership with NSFT, Walking with the Wounded and Outside the Wire.
Veterans will be able to access mental health support, specific stabilisation programmes, substance misuse support, and welfare services.
Diane Palmer, lead nurse at NSFT said: "NSFT is committed to supporting our armed forces, veterans, reservists and their families.
"We have signed the Armed Forces Covenant, are completing the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance Accreditation and are proud to be launching our innovative new Veterans Integrated Service, working in partnership with Walking with the wounded and Outside the wire.
"The new service will enhance core mental health services, providing specific stabilisation programmes, substance misuse support and welfare services across Norfolk and Suffolk. We will also be working collaboratively with the NHS' 'Operation Courage' services in our area."
Andy Sexton, CEO of The Matthew Project said: "This partnership between NSFT, Walking with the Wounded and the Matthew Project's Outside the Wire service, brings together the best possible support for Veteran's with PTSD and substance misuse issues.
"Specialist mental health provision, specialist substance misuse support, along with social support will enable a holistic response to the very real needs of ex-serving personnel. Aside from the expertise, the other key ingredient is that this support will be provided by Veteran's for Veteran's.
"We are really excited to be part of this forward-thinking partnership and grateful to Clive Lewis MP and Lord Dannatt for their support to enable it to happen."
Commenting on the new service, Clive Lewis MP said: "'It is vital that veterans receive the support they need, which is why it's so fantastic to see this project starting up. This collaboration between NSFT, Walking with The Wounded, and Outside the Wire looks to be an incredible program that will really address veteran care in a comprehensive and compassionate way. I am delighted to be associated with this and look forward to being further involved."
General The Lord Dannatt GCB CBE MC DL, President, Veterans Norfolk said: "NSFT is to be congratulated for having responded so promptly to concerns raised about the level of support for Veterans in Norfolk and Suffolk. Within less than a year they have worked collaboratively with the MOD, NHS and 3rd Sector to develop the new Veterans Integrated Service.
"This partnership approach with Outside the Wire and Walking With The Wounded will enhance the current level of provision - providing a dedicated, culturally sensitive service for Veterans and their Carers".